A Hidden Gem Brewing with Heart and Hops in Toledo, OH
We were about 30 minutes southwest of Toledo on April 5, 2025, when we decided to check out a local brewery we'd heard great things about--and we're so glad we did.
From the moment we walked in, we were welcomed like longtime friends. I had the pleasure of chatting with Lisa Bauman, who owns the brewery with her husband, Mike. Both are proud Toledo natives. Mike, a retired police officer and military veteran, has been brewing beer for over 30 years--and it shows. What started as a dream became reality in July 2023 when they opened the brewery after completely transforming what used to be a dentist's office (yep, you'd never guess!). They bought the building in 2021 and spent years renovating, building on, and navigating the complicated web of licensing. Lisa mentioned the TTB was manageable, but Ohio's state licensing was a different story. Still, their passion, grit, and commitment carried them through, and the result is a beautiful space pouring even better beer.
Now let's talk about the beer--because WOW.
We kicked things off with a sampler and were seriously impressed:
River Rat IPA (6%) - A juicy hazy IPA brewed with locally grown malt, Zythos and Azacca hops. It's got citrus and tropical notes, but with a softer, smoother body than your typical hazy. Super drinkable and fresh.
Red "Knight" Ale (6.75%) - This red ale has a great depth of flavor. Notes of caramel and raisin from a mix of malts (some local) make it rich without being too heavy. Balanced and satisfying.
Happy Pillzzzzzzz (6.69%) - An Imperial Pilsner that lives up to its clever name. It's a classic German-style pils with a crisper profile, slight sweetness, and smooth malt finish. Dangerously easy to sip.
Meg B's Blue Light Special (5.5%) - A blueberry ale that completely surprised me. I'm not usually into fruity beers, but this one was smooth, not overly sweet, and incredibly well done. A total standout in its category.
Then came the big winner: I was planning on getting a glass of the hazy, but Lisa offered a taste of their Scottish ale, and--damn. It blew me away.
Tipsy Kilt (7.75%) - A Scottish-style "wee heavy" ale that instantly became my favorite of the night. It's rich, malty, with just the right amount of sweetness, brewed with English malts and hops. The name is as perfect as the pour.
This brewery is the real deal--from the quality of the beer to the story behind it. Lisa and Mike have created something truly special here. It's not just about hops and barley--it's about community, dedication, and a whole lot of heart.
If you're anywhere near Toledo, make the trip. This place deserves to be on your beer bucket list.
Cheers to the Baumans and everything they've built--can't wait to come back! read more